Throughout our exploration of different celebrations, the children learned about a range of traditions and how people celebrate in different ways. For Halloween, the children created their own witches’ potions, dressed up for a spooky Halloween party, and talked about how they celebrate Halloween with their families. During Bonfire Night, we discussed fire safety and enjoyed roasting marshmallows around a campfire. For Diwali, the children created beautiful Rangoli patterns and learned about the Festival of Light, exploring the concepts of light and dark. Finally, at Christmas, the children took part in a nativity play, made cards and decorations, and enjoyed celebrating together at a party. These experiences helped the children develop a richer understanding of different customs, values, and the joy that makes each celebration unique.
''Christmas is good. I love Santa and presents.''
''Diwali is the festival of light.''
''Halloween is scary. I like Trick o Treating and getting sweets.''
''I sing Happy Birthday on my birthday. I like eating cake.''
''I can see lots of colours. The fire works are loud.''
''I love the camp fire.''
To express themselves creatively through role play, music, dance, art, and craft activities linked to celebrations, including performances, decorations and imaginative play.
To listen and comment on a range of stories from a range of different religions and world views.
To be aware of similarities and difference between.
To begin to start a conversation with other children and adults.
To use small world resources to retell parts of familiar stories and make links to the real world.
I have loved teaching a variety of celebrations this half term. It has been wonderful to see the children develop confidence by taking part in celebrations, performances and group activities. They shared their own experiences and listened to others, helping them to understand similarities and differences between families and communities. - Mrs Haigh